Charity founded in 1908 alters name to reflect changes within organisation, expands remit to support disadvantaged youth entering industry.

The Entertainment Artistes’ Benevolent Fund has officially changed its name to The Royal Variety Charity in order to reflect recent developments at the organisation, chairman Giles Cooper has anounced.

Cooper took the occasion to announce wider support offered by the charity.

“I am delighted to announce that the Royal Variety Charity will be widening its criteria of help to all those who have served the entertainment industries, both young and old; to all those who have worked in front of a camera, or behind it, on the stage, or in the wings,” he stated.

“We will not only be offering support to those who have found themselves struggling as a result of ill health, financial hardship or old age, but to talented youngsters from impoverished backgrounds who need assistance to pursue their dreams of entering performing arts education,” he continued. 

The Royal Variety Charity was founded in 1908 and assists those who have worked professionally in the entertainment industry. It also runs a nursing home, Brinsworth House, for retired members of the industry.

The charity’s annual fundrasier, the Royal Variety Performance, is viewed by 150 million people worldwide. This year’s edition will be held at the Royal Albert Hall on Friday November 13.